Filters are necessary objects to install in bikes and scooters to remove the dirt and pollutants trapped in them. It can also remove odors and other toxic gaseous chemicals from the dirt bike air filter and scooter air filter that acts as a silencer for the fuel system. If the air filters get dirty, the air supply in the engine gets reduced, which can turn unburned fuel into soot. This article will give detailed knowledge of the different types of air filters that are used in dirt bikes air filters and scooter air filter and are its functions.
What are the Functions of an air filter?
We all know that filters remove dirt and dust from a machine. Air Filters that are used in bikes and scooters are no exception. These filters remove dirt, dust, and any other pollutants to get stuck in the engine. If the engine gets affected, it will rapidly wear the machine. This will, in turn, reduce the durability of the vehicle. This air filter installed in dirt bikes air filters and scooters acts as a silencer for the fuel system. If, in any case, the engine ever backfires, the air filter works as a flame arrester.
The following important topic to discuss regarding air filters is how many types of air filters exist for a bike or a scooter. Let’s take a look at the available varieties.
Different types of Air Filter
There are basically three types of air filters that are used by motorcycles. Paper, Oiled Gauze, and Oiled Foam. The most popular among these is the Paper Filter. Your engine needs air to help produce power from the fuel that is burning.
- Paper: Most of the bikes fit the paper filters. It is a thick porous paper like the ones that are used in coffee machines. They have pleated plates in order to increase the surface area to a massive extent to increase the amount of air that can be attracted through the filter into the combustion chamber. These filters are very good at blocking out particles. They give enough airflow to the engine, but their primary motive is to block the tiny particles of dust from entering the airbox.
A paper filter should be replaced once it reaches the end of its serviceable life. You can wish to clean them carefully to extend their life but be sure not to puncture the paper membrane.
- Oiled Gauze: This is not as similar to the first one. They do not have a paper membrane. Instead, they have layers of fabric that are coated in oil. These are seen to get separated by thin wire mesh frames. The fabric layer, usually cotton, is more porous than the paper ones and allows air to flow in much faster. The dirt particles are removed by getting stuck to the oil on the fabric. These kinds of filters are best for the ones who prefer to fit an exhaust in their bike or scooter, intending to improve its peak force and horsepower.
One of the significant benefits you can get is simply washing it and oiling it once again. You can reuse it as many times as you can till the gauze tears. Moreover, these are environmentally friendly.
- Oiled Foam: this kind of filter is standard in off-roader bikes. They work better than paper filters in dusty environments as the Foam can trap the3 dust particles while allowing better airflow. These filters are much thicker than the standard ones. The porous holes in the Foam are large, which maximizes airflow. The surface is covered in oil, and as airflows through the filter, the particles get removed efficiently. For reusing them, you can wash them and re-oil them to ensure that they function well.
Do Air Filters Improve Performance?
Air filters can make a massive difference to your bike’s performance. A clean and properly installed air filter increases fuel economy, enhances engine life, reduces emissions, and boosts acceleration. An internal combustion engine must mix approximately 10,000 liters of air with each liter of fuel to work better. The air reaches the engine through the air filter. Without enough air intake, the fuel mixture will be too fuel-rich and hence won’t burn properly. As a result, the engine will starve the oxygen it needs.
Most manufacturers suggest replacing your air filter every 12,000 miles (approximately 19,000 km) or after 12 months, whichever comes first. You should consider replacing your air filter more frequently if you live in an agricultural area or any area with a lot of dust or pollutants.
How often should the engine Air Filter be changed?
Replacing the engine air filter is always ignored by many. It is a maintenance item to look after; a dirty air filter can negatively affect your bike’s performance. A clogged air filter won’t affect fuel economy much, but it can slow down the acceleration by 6 to 11 percent.
Conclusion
The article mentioned above will help you know about the types of air filters and why you should change dirt bike air filter.